The Sunday Mail
Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said his side’s stunning 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Germany in their FIFA World Cup™ semi-final on Tuesday had been the worst day of his life.
“I think it was the worst day of my life, but life goes on,” said the 65-year-old. “I will be remembered as the coach to lose 7-1 but I knew that risk when I took the job and life goes on so that is what I am going to do.”
Brazil were swept aside by a stunning start from the Germans as goals from Thomas Muller, Miroslav Klose, Sami Khedira and two from Toni Kroos put them 5-0 in front inside the opening half hour.
Andre Schurrle added two more goals for the Germans after half-time before Oscar’s late consolation for the hosts.
My message for the Brazilian people and fans is that we did what we could do and we did what we think was our best.
Scolari accepted responsibility for the defeat, but gave no indication as to whether he intended to stay on as Brazil coach after the tournament.
Scolari also rejected the suggestion that Neymar’s serious injury, and the emotion created by his absence, had played a key part in the defeat. “No, no, no. Let’s not try to find an excuse in Neymar or the emotions of the anthem,” he said.
“What happened was Germany imposed a fantastic rhythm on the game. They were able to score the goals to define the match. That diminished my team. Those six minutes of trouble, Germany made use of those moments.
“I don’t think it would have been different with Neymar. He’s a striker. Germany probably could have done that with Neymar in the side, also. He wouldn’t have known how to defend those moves for the second, third, fourth and fifth goals.”-FIFA.com
